Auxiliary Heater Heating Element -Z35-, Checking

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle, 2015 Volkswagen Beetle, 2014 Volkswagen Beetle, and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools and workshop equipment required

Test Instrument Set - Current Clamp - 100A VAS 6356/4A

NOTE:

Vehicle Diagnostic Tester required.

Test conditions

The intake temperature is below 19° C (66.2° F)
The coolant temperature is below 80° C (176° F)
The passenger compartment temperature is approximately 20° C (68° F)
Battery voltage greater than 11 Volts
Generator load not greater than 50% (terminal DF)
Engine speed higher than 450 RPM
The interior temperature is set to "max heat" on the control head.

Test sequence

-- Remove the driver footwell vent. Refer to DRIVER SIDE FOOTWELL VENT .

-- Remove the left footwell trim panel (in the center console). Refer to REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .

-- Measure the current draw on the ground cable -arrow- using the Vehicle Diagnostic Tester and the Test Instrument Set - Current Clamp - 100A VAS 6356/4A.

Fig 1: Identifying Ground Cable

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

Slight heating output ≈ 30 A

Medium heating output ≈ 60 A

Large heating output ≈ 80 A